A nine-year-old girl has been named a winner at a UK-wide awards ceremony.
Atchaya Venugopal, from Basingstoke, received the Rising Mental Maths Star award at the Inspire Awards 2025, which took place at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh.
The awards celebrate young achievers from across the UK, and Atchaya was recognised for her outstanding mental maths abilities.
She was one of 23 inspirational young people honoured at the ceremony, which was hosted by the British Youth International College (BYITC) and attended by educators, families, community leaders and dignitaries.
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"On top of this, she is a graceful Bharatanatyam dancer, and a spirited gymnastics enthusiast - proving brilliance can shine in every arena.
"There was a real buzz on the night - pride, joy, and celebration filled the chamber."
The event also recognised the achievements of business leaders, with Dr Mantri praising their contribution to inspiring future generations.
Dr Mantri said: "Our young winners have shown talent, perseverance, and creativity beyond their years, while our business leaders demonstrated vision and innovation that inspire future generations.
"Together, they represent the very best of what Scotland, and the UK, has to offer."
Atchaya’s parents said the award has motivated her to continue pursuing her goals.
They said: "We are proud of the fact that Atchaya is the youngest abacus graduate in Basingstoke.
"Her confidence and speed in mental maths have amazed us.
"With the Inspite Awards’ recognition and opportunities, she feels motivated to keep reaching higher."
The Inspire Awards 2025 highlighted not only the achievements of individuals but also the growing spirit of community, innovation and leadership across the UK.
Dr Mantri said: "This year’s Inspire Awards proved that excellence has no age limit.
"From our youngest winner, just six years old, to our established business leaders, each story we heard was remarkable.
"These awards are about celebrating achievement, yes, but also about inspiring the next generation to dream bigger and aim higher."
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